Colombian music star Shakira and Nigerian Afrobeats artist Burna Boy have joined forces on a new global anthem titled “Dai Dai,” officially released as part of the music lineup for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The song’s title is derived from Italian and translates to “Let’s go,” capturing the energetic and motivational spirit behind the project. It blends multiple languages, including English and Spanish, while also incorporating phrases in Italian, French, and Japanese, giving it a distinctly international sound.
Beyond its musical appeal, the project carries a strong humanitarian focus. All royalties from “Dai Dai” will go toward the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, which is working to raise $100 million to support education programs and football opportunities for children globally, according to Africa News.
The initiative highlights the growing link between global entertainment and social impact, especially in areas such as education access and youth development.
Shakira, who previously contributed to global football culture with her 2010 World Cup hit “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa),” described the new project as a continuation of her long-standing commitment to education.
She explained that her career has always balanced music with efforts to support learning opportunities for children, including building schools and supporting education-focused initiatives over many years.
She also noted that the collaboration reflects a desire to promote unity in a world facing increasing divisions, emphasizing the role of shared global experiences in bringing people together.
Burna Boy’s participation adds an Afrobeats dimension to the project, reinforcing the global nature of modern World Cup music. His style blends seamlessly with Shakira’s Latin-influenced pop sound, creating a cross-cultural anthem designed for a worldwide audience.
Looking ahead to the tournament, Shakira is also expected to perform during a historic halftime show at the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, scheduled for 19 July at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. She is set to be joined by major international artists, including Madonna and the South Korean group BTS, marking one of the most ambitious entertainment lineups in World Cup history.
“Dai Dai” stands as more than a tournament anthem. It represents a fusion of cultures, languages, and musical traditions, while also serving a philanthropic purpose through its support for global education initiatives. As anticipation builds for the 2026 World Cup, the release adds a powerful cultural and social dimension to the tournament’s global celebrations.
